Benzophenone-3

Updated: 2026-08-17

Overview

Benzophenone-3 (BP-3) is a benzophenone derivative primarily utilized as a broad-spectrum UV filter in sunscreens and cosmetic formulations. It absorbs both UV-A and UV-B radiation, making it effective in preventing skin damage from sunlight exposure. The compound is synthesized through Friedel-Crafts acylation of methoxybenzene with benzoyl chloride. Due to its stability and efficacy, BP-3 has been a staple ingredient in personal care products since the 1980s. However, its use has faced scrutiny in recent years due to ecological and health-related concerns, leading to bans in certain jurisdictions (e.g., Hawaii and Palau).

Physical and Chemical Properties

BP-3 is characterized by its crystalline structure and faint aromatic odor. Its molecular weight of 228.24 g/mol and lipophilic nature (log P ≈ 3.8) make it compatible with oil-based formulations. The compound exhibits strong absorption peaks at 288 nm and 325 nm, covering critical UV wavelengths. Chemically, BP-3 is stable under normal conditions but may degrade under prolonged UV exposure, forming free radicals. Its solubility profile favors organic solvents (e.g., ethanol, propylene glycol), with minimal water solubility (0.1 mg/L at 25°C), which influences its environmental persistence.

Main Applications

The primary use of BP-3 is in sunscreens, where it constitutes up to 6% of formulations (per FDA limits). It is also found in lip balms, hair sprays, and nail polishes as a photostabilizer to prevent product degradation. Beyond cosmetics, BP-3 serves as a UV blocker in plastics (e.g., food packaging) and adhesives to enhance durability. In industrial contexts, BP-3 is incorporated into coatings for textiles and automotive interiors to mitigate UV-induced fading. Its effectiveness in thin-film applications makes it valuable for transparent materials requiring UV protection.

Safety and Storage

BP-3 is classified as a potential endocrine disruptor and allergen, with studies linking it to skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Regulatory bodies like the European Commission cap its concentration at 10% in leave-on products. Environmental concerns center on its toxicity to marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs. Proper storage involves airtight containers in cool (below 30°C), dark environments to prevent photodegradation. Bulk handling requires PPE (gloves, goggles) to minimize direct contact. Disposal must comply with local hazardous waste regulations due to its bioaccumulative potential.

B2B Procurement Guide

When sourcing BP-3, prioritize suppliers with ISO 22716 certification for cosmetic ingredients. Key procurement criteria include purity (≥98%), residual solvent levels, and batch-to-batch consistency. Request documentation such as Certificate of Analysis (COA), Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), and REACH compliance statements. Market prices fluctuate based on purity and volume, with bulk orders (≥100 kg) typically discounted. Consider alternatives like Bemotrizinol or Ethylhexyl Triazone if regulatory restrictions apply to your target market. Verify shipping conditions (e.g., temperature-controlled transport for hot climates).